Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Public testimony'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • During the public testimony period, you will be limited

  • Thank you for being here and thank you for your testimony.
  • We will proceed to testimony. The chair calls Charlie Maloff.
  • Thank you for your testimony.
  • Thank you for coming out today and giving your testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various legislative bills pertaining to corrections and transparency in Texas' penal system. Notable among these was House Bill 4764, which seeks to enhance data availability regarding individuals in restrictive housing, addressing transparency issues related to mental health and recidivism rates. An extensive public testimony period allowed for voices from advocacy groups and individuals affected by these issues, illuminating the psychological toll of solitary confinement as expressed by proponents of the bill during the discussions. There was also considerable debate around Senate Bill 1610 regarding civil commitment and its implications for public safety, with concerns raised about the potential for punitive consequences over rehabilitative efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • testimony period.
  • We will proceed to testimony.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic prompted issuers of public securities and the Texas Public Finance Division in
  • Thank you for your testimony.
  • Thank you for your testimony.
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several house bills, with notable emphasis on HB700, which aims to increase transparency in the merchant cash advance (MCA) sector. Representative McQueen provided a detailed explanation of the issues small business owners face due to aggressive tactics and lack of regulation in this area. The committee also examined HB4609, which focuses on updating the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) benefits to provide clearer options for cities regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), allowing cities to offer retirement benefits in a more flexible and informed manner. Additionally, the meeting featured a strong public testimony segment, where witnesses voiced their support and concerns, especially regarding the implications of digital currencies framed in HB703.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, you heard previous testimony on this, and I'm really having a difficult time wrapping my head around
  • 4089, which addresses the complex regulatory landscape of electric bicycles in our state parks and public
  • I greatly appreciate the opportunity to work with the Office of Public Safety.
  • Both your testimony, but you've got to tell me on the tape
  • going to be passed—HB4955—which aims to codify the current directive from the Texas Department of Public
Summary: The meeting focused on various transportation-related bills, including discussions around essential infrastructure for flood control, electric bicycles, and safety measures for cyclists. Representative Martinez introduced HB3544, highlighting the flooding issues in the Rio Grande Valley and the need for proper stormwater management. The bill garnered attention as it addresses urgent concerns for local emergency services and community safety. Additionally, CSHB4089 outlined regulations for electric bicycles in state parks, promoting access and safety for all park-goers. There was a significant public turnout, with testimonies both in support and against various proposed bills, reflecting community engagement and interest in transportation safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) May 7th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We We will reopen public testimony.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed. We will leave this bill pending at this time. Thank you.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed. I believe Ms.
  • All right, hearing none, the Chair opens up public testimony on House Bill 116.
  • ...HB 116, hearing none, public testimony is closed.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on various significant bills impacting health, family welfare, and vaccinations. Discussion around SB1887 generated notable interest, as it proposed a ten-year prohibition on administering mRNA vaccines, allowing exceptions for cancer treatment and genetic disorders. Senator Sparks, the bill's author, highlighted safety concerns regarding the mRNA technology, stating that further evaluations were necessary. Public testimonies included both support and opposition, with advocates arguing for informed consent and safety, while others expressed concern about restricting scientific advancements in healthcare. Additionally, the conversation addressed HB2216, which aimed at reforming parental rights in child welfare cases, ensuring that parental drug use alone would not warrant automatic termination of rights unless there was a direct, substantial risk to the child. Public testimony for this bill emphasized the need for additional resources to effectively implement its provisions. The committee also discussed HB2809 regarding tracking suicide attempts by children and SB1590 which proposed adopting an electronic process for paternity verification in adoption cases. Overall, the meeting was marked by lively discussions and significant public involvement, indicating the community's vested interest in the legislative outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • District 2 would look at this, and so I thank you for your testimony.
  • is not a lifestyle acceptable to the general public.
  • testimony as we were.
  • I appreciate what you do and your testimony.
  • I appreciate your testimony.
Summary: The committee meeting covered various issues, including bills aimed at mental health reforms and criminal justice. A significant discussion centered around HB2777, which proposes to exempt individuals with severe mental illness, particularly schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, from the death penalty. Testimonies from multiple stakeholders expressed support for the bill, emphasizing that individuals with severe mental illness may lack the capacity to understand the consequences of their actions, and executing them contradicts moral principles and contemporary neuroscience. The committee heard from advocates who argued for compassionate treatment in the justice system, while also maintaining accountability for offenders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Mar 18th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • All right, we'll start with testimony.
  • To lay out a bill in public education, I guess.
  • I was laying out a bill in public education that took a lot longer than it needed to.
  • If there are no questions, then we'll proceed to testimony.
  • Thank you for your testimony, sir. The chair now calls Liz.
Summary: The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock convened to address several pressing bills concerning agriculture, food systems, and hemp regulation in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB1113, which focuses on the production and regulation of hemp, ensuring alignment with federal regulations. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Hemp Coalition, indicated broad support for the bill, citing its potential to enhance agricultural practices and promote research. Additionally, members expressed concerns regarding the implications of food insecurity, advocating for HB1203, aimed at establishing an Office of Food Systems Security and Resiliency to address access to nutritious foods across Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • Harris, we appreciate your testimony.
  • We appreciate your testimony.
  • testimony.
  • We appreciate your testimony.
  • Horton, for your testimony.
Bills: HB39, HB227, HB930, HB1078
Summary: During the meeting, the committee deliberated on several bills primarily focused on veteran welfare and transition issues. One of the main highlights was the discussion of HB39, which proposes to improve data collection on veteran suicide rates, addressing the alarming statistics that reveal veterans are dying by suicide at a rate significantly higher than the general population. The bill seeks to mandate the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to submit aggregate data regarding deceased veterans to the Texas Veterans Commission, ensuring proper analysis and reporting on this critical issue. Witnesses, including mental health professionals and veterans, provided their insights, emphasizing the importance of having accurate data to inform better policies for preventing veteran suicides.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 5th, 2025 at 02:05 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll start down the public testimony route.
  • At this time, we'll start the public testimony. The chair calls Taryn Champagne.
  • Members, not hearing any, we'll start the public testimony. Chair calls...
  • Not hearing any, we will start the public testimony.
  • We'll start the public testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Family and Fiduciary Relationships focused on a range of bills concerning child support, child welfare, and probate law. Notable discussions included HB1980, which aims to require fathers to provide financial support from the moment of conception. This bill was presented by Representative Hicklin, who highlighted the economic challenges faced by single mothers and the importance of ensuring paternal responsibility. Public testimonies were received both in favor and against this bill, including criticisms about the fairness of imposing retroactive child support. The committee members expressed varied opinions, leading to a nuanced debate about the implications of the bill on family dynamics and economic responsibilities . Other bills discussed included SB1923, which allows child support payments to follow the child to non-parent caregivers, thus aiming to better serve children in kinship care situations. This bill was supported by advocates highlighting the financial strain on kinship caregivers without custody. Additionally, HB5642 addressed clouded titles in real estate and the importance of providing clear information to homebuyers regarding estate planning. Overall, the meeting was productive and well-attended, with substantial participation from committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll close public testimony.
  • We'll close public testimony.
  • We have no public testimony cards registered.
  • So we will open public testimony, close public testimony, and leave it pending. Thank you.
  • Okay, public testimony.
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including Senate Bills 2018, 2206, and 1901. SB2018 aims to establish a tax credit for businesses contributing to non-profits that promote family stability, while SB2206 proposes a transition in Texas' R&D tax structure to support innovation and small businesses. Each bill drew significant attention and public testimony, highlighting their potential economic impacts and the importance of supporting local communities. Notably, public testimony revealed strong support and concerns regarding SB2206, particularly in relation to new job creation and economic growth versus the need for fiscal responsibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Let's open public testimony. The floor is now open for public testimony on Senate Bill 1242.
  • Okay, hearing none, public testimony is now closed.
  • Public testimony will close on Senate Bill 1409.
  • Okay, with no public testimony, public testimony will close
  • If not, public testimony is closed.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education covered various significant bills focused primarily on improving educational accessibility and accountability in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2252, aimed at supporting kindergarten readiness and early literacy, received a commendable endorsement from the committee, showcasing a unifying approach towards enhancing foundational education. Additionally, Senate Bill 1962, concerning public school accountability, stirred proactive discussions about the challenges faced by school systems, further bringing forth various stakeholder insights during public testimony. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members debated the efficacy and implications of each proposal, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing educational standards across the state. As the meeting progressed, various senators championed their respective bills, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in standardized college entrance exams as highlighted in Senate Bill 1241. The bill proposes to expand acceptable exams beyond the traditional SAT and ACT, reflecting a modernized approach to student assessments. Senators and representatives from key educational organizations contributed testimony, solidifying support for such measures while advocating for the continuous dialogue on educational reforms. With multiple bills reported favorably to the full Senate, the session exemplified a dedicated effort towards fostering educational advancements in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To respect everyone's time, we will be limiting testimony

  • Availability Portal and is accessible to the public online
  • who are a little bit different than them, which is what they're going to see once they enter the public
  • Yes ma'am, I'll get on my testimony on this one. Thank you.
  • Thank you for the excellent testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered a range of bills focusing on various legislative measures aimed at improving transparency and accountability in both the public and private sectors. Notably, HB576 drew attention as it sought to clarify the legal definition of a 'person' in relation to real property transactions, addressing longstanding confusion in property law. Witnesses provided testimony supporting this bill, arguing it would greatly enhance clarity and uniformity in property dealings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, public testimony will now be closed.
  • The chair will now open public testimony on House Bill 121.
  • The chair now opens public testimony.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is now closed.
  • With no other public testimony, public testimony will

Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding various bills aimed at improving educational standards and safety in Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 121, which was proposed to enhance school safety by allowing the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for schools, a measure that received both support and opposition regarding the authority of local school district police. Additionally, House Bill 367 addressed the issue of excused absences for students with serious illnesses, emphasizing the need for clear documentation requirements to assist families and educators in managing these situations. The meeting was marked by public testimonies from various stakeholders, including educators and policy advocates, who provided insights and experiences that illustrated the importance of the legislation being considered.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • for an individual that's open to the public.
  • Do public clinics that may have patients located in

  • A study just came out, the Ethics and Public Policy

  • I'm going to share with you a couple of testimonies from
  • And one more testimony from a mother whose voice matters.
Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several significant bills, including HB20, which aims to prevent and reduce fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters. Representative Perry highlighted the importance of this bill in ensuring that legitimate organizations receive donations while deterring scams that occur in the aftermath of disasters. The bill was passed unanimously with discussions around its necessity and the impact on victims of fraud. Further, House Bill 18 was discussed concerning penalties for legislators attempting to break quorum, a topic that stirred some debate on legislative integrity and rules enforcement. Members voiced varying opinions on the implications of the bill, leading to its eventual passage amid objections from some members who raised concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and potential for misuse. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with members actively debating key issues while striving for legislative progress on these critical bills. The audience included public stakeholders who expressed their views, showcasing the engagement between legislators and constituents on pressing matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll be limiting public testimony to three minutes.

  • ="10" data-time="54">For those watching at home, the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee can take public
  • Review the public hearing notice that can be found under the
  • Thank you for your testimony.

  • Thank you for your testimony.

Summary: The meeting focused on the presentation and discussions around several House Bills, notably HB769, which aims to enhance pedestrian safety by providing funding for the construction of sidewalks and other pedestrian infrastructure in disadvantaged areas. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented the bill passionately, highlighting the necessity of sidewalks as basic infrastructure that supports community health and mobility. Testimony from various stakeholders, including local officials and community advocates, supported the bill, emphasizing the urgent need for improved pedestrian pathways due to rising pedestrian fatalities in Texas. Several bills were left pending as discussions were extensive, indicating ongoing negotiations and considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Let's call up public testimony on this.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is now closed.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • We'll open up public testimony.
  • Seeing none, public testimony is now closed.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on various pieces of legislation, notably Senate Bill 2299, which aims to redefine municipal immunity. Deep concerns were raised during discussions, particularly by public witnesses who underscored the bill's potential to undermine citizen accountability and local governance. Representative Monty Bennett argued passionately against the bill, citing its conflict with recent local charter amendments passed by Dallas voters, reflecting a significant public sentiment for local governance autonomy. Multiple attendees voiced strong opposition due to fears of increased litigation against municipalities, which could strain local resources and hinder governance effectiveness. In contrast, proponents of the bill, including city representatives, argued that it is essential for preventing frivolous lawsuits and maintaining fiscal responsibility for city budgets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, public testimony is now closed.
  • Let's open public testimony to make sure I did.
  • Hearing none, we'll begin public testimony for the committee.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is now closed.
  • If not, we'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 2522.
Summary: The meeting of the committee effectively reviewed and voted on multiple bills pertaining to public safety, affordable housing, and local governance. Notably, Senator Cook introduced SB2262, which grants municipalities authority to regulate automated defibrillators, aiming to enhance public health responses in urban areas. Public testimony was heard on several bills, illustrating community support and concerns, particularly around affordable housing issues raised by Senator Menendez's SB2137, which seeks to improve access to low-income housing by altering existing criteria used by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Additionally, the discussions also touched on the impact of various bills on local governance and property rights, highlighting the committee's aim to address essential services within communities effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • There being none, public testimony on **SJR 36** is closed.
Summary: The meeting encompassed discussions on a variety of legislative bills with notable presentations from several committee members. Key topics included fiscal responsibility and the impact of legislation on local communities. Members engaged in a productive dialogue regarding amendments to particular bills, demonstrating a commitment to fine-tuning legislative proposals to better serve constituents. Testimonies from several community stakeholders highlighted varied perspectives on key issues, further enriching the discussions.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • I look forward to your testimony, and now Senator Warren can give her opening statement.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on pressing issues related to the U.S. military's recruitment and personnel strategies, especially in light of the upcoming NDAA for fiscal year 2026. Chairperson expressed appreciation for the service of witnesses including senior military leaders from different branches, emphasizing the importance of personnel as the backbone of national defense. Discussions revealed concerns regarding the recent lowering of recruitment standards across military branches, which could potentially affect the quality of service members and long-term military readiness. Witnesses were asked to address the implications of these changes on military health and efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These comments are left by the public on each agenda in our hearings.
  • We've heard some testimony in bills before about the use of drones.
  • But thank you for your testimony.
  • This is bad for consumers and urges the public.
  • Seeing none, we will move into testimony.
Summary: The meeting convened by Chair Metcalfe was characterized by the passage of multiple bills aimed at designating various regions in Texas for specific cultural or recreational significance, such as HCR 71 establishing LaSalle County as the Wild Hog Capital and HCR 86 naming Denton as the Halloween Capital of Texas. All bills discussed received unanimous support in the committee, signaling a cooperative atmosphere among committee members. Representative Flores brought forth House Bill 3883 which focuses on an important economic tool to spur Texas' competitive edge in hosting major events. The committee's voting process was efficient, as all motions to report the bills favorably passed without any opposition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In order to testify, we will close public testimony on Senate Bill 904 and leave the bill.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed and we will move on.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed. We'll leave Senate Bill 1525 pending.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Public testimony on Senate Bill 2446 is concluded.
Summary: The meeting involved focused discussions on several key bills aimed at improving mental health services and regulatory practices within the state. Notably, Senator Sparks introduced SB2446, which aims to enhance transparency in Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) by requiring detailed expenditure reports and reducing the influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in decision-making processes. The bill drew mixed reactions, with some members emphasizing the need for more oversight while others raised concerns about potential negative impacts on recruitment and service delivery for vulnerable populations. Public testimony highlighted differing perspectives, underscoring the complexity of mental health policies and their implementation constraints.

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